The natural lens of the eye is situated in an elastic-like capsular bag that holds it in place. When performing cataract surgery, the front portion of the capsule is opened in order to remove the lens. After completely removing the natural lens, the intraocular lens is positioned inside the capsular bag. The capsule holds the intraocular lens and serves as a protective barrier for the back of the eye.

 

Following cataract surgery, the capsule may accumulate cloudy cells that typically cause blurred, hazy vision. Some patients may also experience glare problems when driving at night. This common condition, known as posterior capsular haze, occurs in as many as 40% of patients who undergo cataract surgery. Posterior capsular haze may occur months or years postoperatively.